Senator Loren Legarda joined colleagues and dignitaries at the necrological rites for former House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. on February 16 at the Plenary Hall of the House of Representatives, remembering him as a visionary leader whose faith in people and commitment to peace left an enduring mark on the nation.

“How do we measure the life of a man who always seemed to stand at the crossroads of our nation’s story? Today, I speak not only as a Senator of the Republic, but as one of the many whose paths were defined by the generosity and faith of former Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.,” Legarda said.

She recalled how de Venecia’s belief in her capabilities shaped her career, “I probably would not be a Senator today if, in 1997, Manong Joe hadn’t brought me into his Lakas party. I was then a 37 year old journalist, far from imagining a career in the Senate. He believed in my capabilities long before I did.”

Legarda emphasized that beyond his unprecedented five terms as Speaker and his leadership in organizations across Asia and the world, de Venecia’s greatest impact was personal.

“I will remember the quiet conversations, the sincere words of encouragement, the way he made you feel that your work and your voice mattered,” she said.

She also cited de Venecia’s own words, “Public office is both a privilege and a crucible. It tests your resolve, challenges your principles, and demands sacrifices not only from you but also from your loved ones.”

Legarda noted that these reflections remind public servants that “the position we hold is temporary, but the integrity with which we bear its burdens will outlast us.”

Highlighting his legacy, Legarda said, “Manong Joe or JDV lived that truth. He helped steer our country through turbulent post Martial Law years, building the ‘Rainbow Coalition’ that enabled long needed reforms to pass and helping to heal the fractures in our democracy. He championed laws that converted former military bases into engines of development, opened our economy to new partnerships, and gave overseas Filipino workers a dignified way to support their families.”

Legarda closed her tribute with a personal note.

“I mourn today not only the country’s loss of a brilliant leader and statesman, but my own loss of a mentor and a dear friend. Rest in peace, our dear Manong Joe. We will honor you best not by our words today, but by the way we choose to serve the country every day,” she concluded.